Steven Gerrard: Ashley Cole deserves 100 England cap accolade

England captain Steven Gerrard has said Ashley Cole deserves the acclaim as the full-back prepares to make his 100th England appearance when the Three Lions take on Brazil on Wednesday.

The Liverpool midfielder played his 100th game in an England shirt in November against Sweden, and he believes the Chelsea defender has earned the honour of joining the century club due to his consistency and passion while playing for his country.

“It’s going to be a very proud moment for Ashley, it certainly was for me,” said the England skipper.

“No one deserves it more than Ashley, I think he’s been probably the most consistent player over the past 10 or 12 years in the England team, so he certainly deserves to celebrate that.

“He’s certainly a great, I think at times throughout his career Ashley’s proved that he’s the best left-back in the world. He’s always been consistent in the big major tournaments.

“I’d put Ashley against anyone and you know you’ve got the confidence in him to do a fantastic job for the team.”

Gerrard also added that he looks forward to taking on Brazil in their friendly match at Wembey, and that it will be a great test for Roy Hodgson’s side, which will receive a boost with the return of Arsenal midfielder Jack Wiltshire after a lengthy absence from the national team due to injury.

“It’s going to be a great occasion and it’s always a really proud moment to lead your country out.

“If you could pick one nation to be playing against it would be Brazil, they’re world-class opposition and full of talent. It’ll be a great test for us.”

Throughout his career Ashley’s proved that he’s the best left-back in the world, I’d put him against anyone